How to Treat Discolored Teeth?

What are the types of teeth staining?

Two main types of discolored teeth: intrinsic and extrinsic staining. Extrinsic tooth discoloration is surface-level and typically results from Diet. Red wine, tea, coffee, and cigarettes are common offenders. Your teeth may appear to be brown or yellow in hue as a result of them developing a coating of stains over the enamel.

On the other hand, intrinsic teeth discoloration occurs below the teeth’s surface. This may result from health-related issues, medications, trauma to teeth, or too much fluoride intake during childhood. Intrinsic teeth staining is more difficult to treat and might need professional help.

What can cause brown teeth?

The common factors are:

1. Food and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries stain teeth easily. Sugary and acidic foods cause enamel erosion, making teeth more prone to disccolouration.

2. Tobacco use can occasionally result in brown teeth. Most tobacco products contain nicotine and tar are notorious staining agents and stick to the teeth so easily; these never get washed away even by regular brushing.

3. Medications like tetracycline are responsible for teeth staining especially in children whose teeth are still in their development stages. Another group is that of some antihistamines and antihypertensives.

4. Lack of daily brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, which is known to stain teeth and contribute to a yellowish color.

5. Genetics: some people have teeth that are genetically more to the dark or yellow side.

6. Aging causes more of the yellow dentin to show through as the enamel of teeth wears down. This natural process may cause your teeth to yellow more and more over time.

What can you do to get rid of stains?

If you have discolored or brown teeth, the following are various ways to alleviate the problem:

1. Over-the-Counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels sometimes help erase teeth surface discoloration and brighten your teeth. They have mild abrasives or bleaching agents that may lighten the discoloration.

2. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can be effective in whitening but use them with care to avoid harming your enamel!

3. Dental cleaning removes surface stains and plaque to leave your smile cleaner and brighter.

4. Professional whitening is recommended for teeth staining quite deep. Your dentist will apply bleaching agents far stronger and can remove extrinsic and intrinsic stains.

When to Visit a Dentist?

See a dentist if you have discolored teeth or at-home whitening products don’t work. Your dentist will examine your teeth and recommend a specific procedure based on your needs. Your dentist will also address any medical condition that might be a reason for the discoloration of your teeth.

Discolored Teeth: Treatment Options

1. Teeth Whitening: in-office bleaching and take-home kits.

2. Veneers: are thin layers of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the front face of your teeth.

3. Bonding covers the teeth with tooth-colored resin helps to improve teeth color.

4. Crowns are advised after endodontic treatment to improve tooth discoloration.

How can you avoid teeth discoloration?

You can avoid teeth discoloration by having a mixture of confident lifestyle choices like: 

• Brush your teeth twice with fluoride toothpaste, floss, and use a mouth rinse.
• Limit foods and drinks that stain, such as red wine, tea, and coffee.
• Always rinse your mouth out with water right away.
• Quit smoking and away from tobacco products to avoid brown teeth.
• Regular dental visits can preserve the health of your teeth with cleanings and examinations.

Learn more from the experts at Dentistry in Philadelphia 

For a consultation on treating discolored teeth and getting a more confident smile, contact our cosmetic dentistry clinic. If you are in Philadelphia, Razavi Dental offers a wide range of services. Our staff will assist you in achieving and keeping a radiant smile.